The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) began investigations
after its US counterpart accused Armstrong of helping orchestrate the most
sophisticated doping programme in the history of the sport.

ASADA chief executive Aurora Andruska said some cyclists had already come
forward and she urged others to follow suit before they were accused of doping.

“The days of remaining silent are over,” Andruska said.

“The days of fearing what happens if the truth gets out are over. The days
of protecting people who are in the wrong are over.”

Andruska said where an athlete or team staffer acknowledged their mistakes
and were willing to reveal violations by others, ASADA could offer
“substantial assistance” under the World Anti-Doping Code.

“But let me be clear, this is not an amnesty where full absolution is
given,” she said.

Armstrong has consistently denied taking performance-enhancing drugs but
the US rider has been stripped of his seven Tour de France titles.

Since the scandal broke, two senior Australian cycling figures have
admitted to doping during their sporting careers and resigned from their
positions with Cycling Australia.

Andruska said ASADA wanted to hear from anyone who had participated in
organised doping, or experienced peer pressure to dope, or had information
about suspected doping in sport.

“The integrity of Australian cycling is under public scrutiny and we now
need the cooperation of the sport and its athletes if our investigation is
going to get to the heart of the matter,” Andruska said.

ASADA has established a confidential phone hotline and has a secure and
anonymous form on its website for anyone who wants to provide information.

The move came as the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) Friday decided to
make all Games athletes and officials sign a statutory declaration stating
they have never been involved in doping.

Making a false declaration is a criminal offense.

The statement will cover performance-enhancing substances but not
recreational illicit drugs, the AOC said.